Many regional communities and growing regions are facing substantial damage and stress from the current floods in southern Queensland and Northern New South Wales.

Growers in the region, and all over Australia, have faced significant hardship and challenges over the last two years due to COVID-19, supply chain disruptions and input cost rises – this is another challenge that growers will work to overcome in the coming weeks and months.

AUSVEG stands ready to support its State Members to assist growers through this difficult time, including supporting efforts for the local, state and federal assistance required once the impact of the damage has been assessed.

To assist with the collection of flood impact data in Queensland, Growcom and the Queensland Department of Agriculture are encouraging primary producers to complete the online Natural Disaster Impact Survey. This information will ensure DAF is able to capture relevant information required to prepare applications for assistance more quickly to support recovery.

Click here to take the Natural Disaster Impact Survey.

Jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) have been activated in the following Local Government Areas (LGAs): Brisbane, Fraser Coast, Gold Coast, Gympie, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, North Burnett, Redland, Scenic Rim, Somerset, South Burnett, Southern Downs, Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba. The latest disaster funding activation information can be found here: http://www.qra.qld.gov.au/disaster-funding…/activations.

Click here for the latest disaster funding activation information.

As the situation continues to unfold keep an eye on the Queensland Reconstruction Authority website for further information www.qra.qld.gov.au.

AUSVEG will communicate relevant information to growers and industry members that comes to light as the situation changes and as other regions are impacted.

AUSVEG encourages growers to look after themselves, as well as their friends, families, colleagues and community members during this difficult time.

Anyone who is experiencing difficulty with their mental health can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.